World Traveler and Author of high tales of adventure

Questions and Answers

From time to time, I'll be posting responses to questions posed by some of my readers.

To ask me a question, use the "Contact" tab.

Q: How long did it take you to write "Out of Synch"?

A: I started writing Out of Synch in November 2012, and entered my final edits in November 2014, so the best answer is probably around two years. But I didn't spend that entire time on this story. I took some time away in the middle to co-write "A Brief History of Safety Harbor, Florida," which was published by The History Press in the fall of 2013. Also, even though I didn't start actually writing until November 2012, I had been thinking about the plot and the characters for probably two months before that. Writing a story takes a long time.

Q: How did you think of the story for "Out of Synch"?

A: Like many other stories, Out of Synch is partly based on personal experience. My older daughter has been a competitive synchronized swimmer for several years, and, like Katie, she trains with a swim team (racing) on days when there is no synchro practice. Like most people, I knew nothing about the sport when she started, but after a few years I realized that there was a good story in the excitement of the sport and drive of the athletes. At first, I planned to write about the team's attempt to reach Nationals, but I soon focused on the story of one girl--Katie's story. Some of the smaller details are based on my daughter's own experiences, but parts I made up. However, I tried my best to stay true to the sport and describe what happens at the meets as accurately as possible.

Q: I love "Out of Synch." Will you write another book about synchronized swimming?

A: At present, I'm not planning to write a follow-up novel. If I did, however, I think I'd like to focus on her teammate Tess. I'm very curious to find out what happens to her after Out of Synch ends.

Q: Will "Out of Synch" be made into a movie?

A: I hope so! Do you know any movie producers?

THE PIRATE OF JANACONDA ISLAND:

Q: Will there be more stories about Lucy and Paddy?

A: You will hear more from Lucy and Paddy, but a publication date has not yet been set for their next adventure.